Hey Geodude; welcome aboard the greatest RV Forum on the WWW. As you have already experienced, there are a lot of people here who have already traveled the road you are looking at, and they are pretty good at sharing their experience. If that isn't enough, they are pretty darn friendly too.
If you have been following the RV industry as it relates to these economic times you may have recognized that Winnebago is in as fine of financial condition as any and if anyone is going to weather this storm, surely it will be Winnebago. Additionally, Winnebago builds a pretty good product too. So, your idea of purchasing a Winny is sound.
We hope that you will find the information and advice that you seek, right here. Likely you will. Along the way you will undoubtedly make some new friends and if you are able to attend some of the rallys you will have an opportunity to meet some of these new friends in person. As you gain experience and knowledge we would appreciate your participation in helping others.
Welcome aboard! I think you are going to enjoy this RV life style.